Where to watch the World Cup

Spain take on Netherlands in the World Cup final. Where will you watch the action?

By
Becky Lucas
08 July 2010

Barasti Beach Stadium [aka ‘the Dome’]Screen size: 12m wide (equivalent to 100 TV sets)Where: In front of Barasti BarThe atmosphere: You will find vuvuzelas here. Walking into this green-lit, five-storey marquee is like entering another world, so far, far removed is it from the casual beach setting outside. In here it’s all cheering, jeering, silly dancing and screaming over the deafening sound system. While this may sound like hell to some, it guarantees an atmosphere.Prices: Free entry. Call 04 399 3333.

Dubai World Trade CentreScreen size: 30m x 7mWhere: Sheikh Saeed Hall 3, Dubai World Trade CentreThe atmosphere: This depends on how busy the vast venue is: it caters for up to 1,500 football fans, and hopes to ‘replicate the fervour of the matches in South Africa’. Crowd or not, this is the widest screen in Dubai, includes food and non-alcoholic drinks and offers World Cup 2010 memorabilia for sale.Price: Dhs50 for the finals. There are no contact details – just turn up!

The Dubai MallScreen size: 20m x 10mWhere: Dubai Ice RinkThe atmosphere: Cool, we suspect. Centrally placed on the rink, the screen boasts top-notch audio as well as being one of the biggest. Wander to the Waterfront Promenade at half time and browse the football history tent, while keeping an eye open for stilt walkers, mascots and various performers wandering about.Price: Dhs50, including 20 per cent discount at McDonald’s.

Grand CinemasScreen size: 19m x 13mThe atmosphere: It’s a cinema! Although we’re sure cheering does happen, it’s not the same as standing in a mosh pit swinging a scarf over your head. However, we love the idea of a comfy seat, popcorn and feeling as though we’re there on the field among the players.Prices: Dhs100. Call 04 232 8523 or see www.grandcinemas.com

The PalladiumScreen size: 16m x 9m (equal to four double-decker buses)Where: Dubai Media CityThe atmosphere: Concert-like and family-friendly. As well as being able to watch the game on this mammoth HD screen, you can wander around the Sponsors Village, where you’ll find a PlayStation zone, goal striker simulator, DJ booth, Dubai drumming sessions, face painting and more.Price: Entry is Dhs60 including one drink. Call 04 363 6897, see www.thepalladiumdubai.com or www.timeoutdubai.com

Aprés: Complimentary drink for ladies on arrival, Dhs25 thereafter. Men get a bucket of bottles for Dhs99. Mini-burgers and pizzas with toppings themed on the national cuisines of the teams playing.
Mall of the Emirates (04 341 2575).

BarZar: Super-size screens, public fan zone with stadium-style seating, live DJ and band performing between matches. Games and prizes, a football and nation-themed menu and buy-one-get-one-free deal one hour prior to the game.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah (04 366 6730).

Belgian Beer Café: Book a table for four for Dhs200 and get special drinks and a food platter. There are daily lucky draws with great prizes, including four nights at the Millenium Hotel in London’s Mayfair.
Grand Millennium Dubai, Barsha (04 423 4111).

Grand Hyatt: Dubai Air-conditioned stadium-style venue, with large high-res screen and a DJ when there’s no footie, plus drink and food deals. Entry is Dhs45 including one drink.
Oud Metha (04 317 1234).

Harry’s Place: For every Dhs100 spent while taking in the World Cup games, you gain a chance of winning two tickets to Johannesburg. Plus a 6pm-8pm happy hour and live entertainment.
Renaissance Dubai, Deira (04 262 5555).

Harvesters: Staff will be dressed as refs, with whistles and red and yellow cards for guests to use.
Crowne Plaza Dubai (04 331 1111).

Hofbräuhaus: Authentic German fare in a special World Cup platter. Pay Dhs120 for food and get one drink free. Prizes, too.
JW Marriott, Deira (04 607 7977).